Heroic start for ‘Avengers’ overseas

Disney pic opens boffo before domestic bow

Disney’s “Marvel’s The Avengers” kickstarted its global run over the April 27-29 frame with a stellar $185.1 million from 39 international territories, representing 70% of the overseas marketplace.

“Avengers,” which launched Stateside a week later on May 4, scored a record-setting perf in nearly every overseas market, led by the U.K., which contributed $25.5 million — Blighty’s best-ever opening for a superhero movie, as well as the highest three-day opening for Disney in the territory.

In Australia, “Avengers” grossed $19.8 million, which represents the country’s second-highest opening weekend of all time.

Outside English-speaking markets, the pic performed best in Latin America, nabbing all-time opening weekend records in seven territories in the region. Mexico led the charge, contributing $16.9 million, followed by Brazil, with $11.3 million.

The pic also hit the top in France ($13.9 million) and Germany ($8.1 million).

“Avengers” marks the most recent Hollywood summer tentpole to test international water before its U.S. launch. Universal’s “Battleship,” which bows Stateside on May 18, debuted nearly a month overseas in advance of the States. That pic has cumed north of $170 million through April 19.

“Avengers” still has major markets including China, Russia and Japan yet to go, while “Battleship” has been released throughout the overseas markets.